Cousins Tony Francis and Lehi Hopoate to clash in World Cup
Cousins Tony Francis and Tupou Francis will represent Lebanon against their cousin Lehi Hopoate and Tonga on Friday.
Two cousins are about to face off on rugby league's biggest stage. Tonga play Lebanon in the World Cup on Friday.
Tony Francis and his brother Tupou represent Lebanon, while their cousin Lehi Hopoate plays for Tonga. The three grew up together in Sydney, playing junior rugby league and going to family events.
Former NRL star John Hopoate helped guide them through the grades. Tony Francis and Tupou Francis moved to Queensland around four or five years ago.
The brothers chose to represent Lebanon, which surprised their father Frank. He expected them to play for Tonga because their family has strong Tongan ties.
Tony has already sent Lehi joking messages about their upcoming collision. Lehi said the family will support both teams.
They joke about who they will cheer for. Whoever has the ball gets their cheers.
- Friday
- Match date
- four or five years ago
- Years since brothers moved
- Gold Coast Titans
- Tony's current club
- 2026 Rugby League World Cup
- Tournament
Why it mattersWorld Cup matches between nations with shared family bonds create compelling human stories. These show sport's power to unite and divide families.
AustraliaAustralian-based players representing Pacific nations brings the World Cup story home to Australian audiences and showcases the depth of rugby league talent in Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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